Can Marco Rubio convince Trump that a free Cuba is America First?

The question now facing Washington is whether Rubio can persuade President Donald Trump that promoting political and economic freedom in Cuba aligns directly with the administration’s “America First” agenda.

A Longstanding Cause

Rubio has consistently argued that the Cuban government represents not only a challenge to democratic values but also a strategic concern for the United States. Throughout his career, he has supported sanctions, restrictions, and diplomatic pressure aimed at encouraging political reform on the island.

For Rubio, a democratic and economically open Cuba would represent both a moral victory and a strategic gain. Supporters of this approach argue that political liberalization could reduce migration pressures, expand economic opportunities, and strengthen regional stability.